At Mill Hill Primary School, we believe that Physical Education is an essential part of every child's development. Our PE curriculum aims to inspire all pupils to lead active, healthy lifestyles and develop a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity. Through a broad and balanced programme of sporting activities, games, gymnastics, dance, fitness, outdoor learning and swimming, pupils develop physical competence, confidence, resilience and teamwork skills.
Our curriculum is designed to ensure that all children, regardless of ability or background, have access to high-quality physical education. We aim to develop fundamental movement skills in the early years and progressively build sport-specific knowledge, tactical awareness, leadership and collaboration skills as pupils move through the school. We also promote positive attitudes towards physical activity, personal challenge, fair play and wellbeing, empowering children to become physically literate and confident participants in sport and exercise.
Implementation
PE is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge, skills and understanding over time. In Reception, children focus on developing fundamental movement skills, ball skills, games, gymnastics and dance, providing strong foundations for future learning. As pupils progress through Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, they revisit and build upon these core skills through a wide range of activities including gymnastics, dance, fitness, team games, athletics, invasion games, net and wall sports, striking and fielding activities, outdoor adventurous activities and swimming.
Lessons are planned to ensure progression, challenge and inclusion for all learners. Teachers focus on developing physical skills alongside important personal qualities such as cooperation, communication, resilience, independence and sportsmanship. Opportunities for competition, teamwork and leadership are embedded throughout the curriculum.
Assessment is ongoing and supportive. At the end of each PE topic, teachers complete an assessment of pupils' knowledge and skills to monitor progress and inform future teaching. Assessment is practical and low-pressure, focusing on participation, skill development and individual improvement rather than formal testing. This ensures children feel confident, enjoy PE and recognise their own achievements while continuing to make good progress in their physical development.
Swimming is provided to enable pupils to develop water confidence and essential life-saving skills, while outdoor adventurous activities encourage problem-solving and collaboration.
Impact
The impact of our PE curriculum is that pupils leave Mill Hill as physically literate, confident and enthusiastic participants in physical activity. They demonstrate improved coordination, balance, agility, strength and sporting skills, alongside a strong understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
Children show resilience when facing physical challenges, collaborate effectively with others and display respect, fairness and good sportsmanship. They are able to apply skills across a range of sports and activities, understand game tactics and participate confidently in competition and team events. Through regular engagement in PE, pupils develop positive attitudes towards physical activity that support their physical health, mental wellbeing and future participation in sport beyond primary school.